SARAH B. GILLIAM BLOGS

the teaching hat

2012-01-27T09:10:00.000-08:00

Photography allows us so many opportunities. It allows us to create, express and capture life, and it also opens doors.

When we started bouncing around the idea of a photography workshop, Shea, Justin and I knew we were onto something that wouldn't just educate, but would also excite and inspire.

Enter SHOOT CAMP:

ShootCamp Promo

We designed this workshop to be more than a lecture, but more about what our students wanted to learn. We created it to fit the individual interests of each person. And we designed it to be fun. And, of course, by fun, I mean hilarious.

yup, we totally smeared mascara under our eyes for this awesome promo photo..

February 11 will be our fourth SHOOT CAMP.
Our recruits come in knowing little or nothing about shooting their DSLR off of the AUTO setting. When we're finished with 'em, they are shooting completely manual.
And it's more than that- we're cracking UP, helping each other, learning from each other.. there are no egos and no wrong questions (except for maybe why Justin insists on shooting Nikon).

It's true: anyone can be a photographer. And while this workshop isn't designed to show you how to run a photography business, it is designed to give you the technical knowledge to make you a stronger shooter.

Watch the video. See the students' images for yourself. Enlist.

(we have about four or five spots remaining for our Feb. 11 SHOOT CAMP, which will be held at the incredible Studio Berry Hill in Nashville).

Ava Jane

2012-01-23T13:38:00.000-08:00

Five weeks and exploring.

Anna

2012-01-16T21:13:00.001-08:00

Pool cover

2011-12-29T06:32:00.000-08:00

Grandpa

2011-12-27T16:55:00.000-08:00

Luke, Avery Jane, Cash and Noah

2011-12-19T16:09:00.001-08:00

Met up with this group of beautiful children who belong to some long-time friends of ours. Some of them more eager to be photographed than others.. but one thing is for sure, these beautiful family is full of lashes lashes lashes.

Jenna

2011-12-12T15:06:00.000-08:00

Shot a photographer friend of mine this afternoon- love her look.

Love the square. Shot film, too, but borrowed the Hasselblad lenses for these with a great converter.

Nashville Men's Fashion

2011-12-08T07:47:00.000-08:00

I recently had the pleasure of photographing some of Nashville's most talented designers.
Peter Nappi, Otis James, Emil Erwin, Tidwell & Perryman and Imogene + Willie. Here are a few images from the shoot at Nashville's Studio Berry Hill.

Styled by Brooke Shipley, Coquette Swimwear
H&MU: Marwa Bashir, Lucy Pop Salon

Watch

2011-11-27T15:21:00.000-08:00

Studio

2011-11-19T16:49:00.000-08:00

Documenting a band in the studio is such a raw and creative process, and hearing the mastered work is just as exciting as seeing it pieced together. Shot lots of film of this group today, so I look forward to sharing those images soon.

Supper

2011-11-16T11:17:00.001-08:00

Alan and Michaela, engaged

2011-11-11T10:50:00.000-08:00

I love Alan and Michaela's neighborhood. Almost as much as they do. And photographing them around their house and in the park they love was such a perfect way to spend an afternoon.

I love these two and am thrilled to be a part of their wedding next spring.

The real

2011-10-31T10:27:00.000-07:00

Out of the office

2011-10-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

returning Oct. 31

Jessy and Ty, married

2011-10-23T17:04:00.000-07:00

The weather was perfect for Jessy and Ty's Chattanooga wedding. There wasn't a cloud in the sky and the October sun was just as warm as the colors in east Tennessee.

So glad to be a part of your celebration and so excited for your new life ahead.
Hugs to you both! Mazel tov!

PHOTOfunDAY

2011-10-21T10:41:00.000-07:00

PHOTOfunDAY™ is fast and fun. A perfect combo for your kiddo, your headshot, your pet!
And we are delighted to partner with Murfreesboro's organic grocer, deli and gift shop: The Greenery on the Square.

Booking begins TODAY! Give Adriane a shout at PHOTOfunDAY@gmail.com
and to see images from past PHOTOfunDAYs, click here!

And if you're reading this as a photographer- maybe you're getting started or are looking for ways to grow your business? I will be offering an orientation for PHOTOfunDAY™ franchising this winter. To learn more information about this opportunity, please e-mail me at sarah@sarahbgilliam.com, subject line: PHOTOfunDAY.

Gina and Garig, expecting

2011-10-17T08:36:00.000-07:00

Gina and Garig are busy folks. Both working in the ER, both looking after two ADORABLE pups and both expecting this December. Last week, we took some time for some updated photos - post wedding, pre baby- at their beautiful home, which is part of a historic plantation.

So lovely meeting you two! I can't wait to hear what you're having!!

The Ball Family

2011-10-17T07:22:00.000-07:00

Just seems like yesterday, the boys were so little! Our first shoot together was two years ago, and it just shows how time flies! Now getting ready for their third addition, we met at the beautiful Traveler's Rest Plantation before they become a family of five! Loved this spot, the colors and that we could really take our time. The boys LOVED running around, picking up leaves and (Mason) suggesting good places for photos ;)

Rachel and Wes, the wedding

2011-10-16T11:13:00.000-07:00

Friday morning, I loaded up the car for beautiful Heartwood Hall near Memphis. It was a stunning day amplified by the incredible details designed and arranged by Rachel's mother. I will post a blog exclusively about the details that went into making this beautiful day (thanks to my friend and talented shooter, Sara Rose, who photographed everything from the dozens of varieties of flowers to the monogrammed centerpieces).

For now, the documentary version..

Rachel and Wes, I enjoyed meeting so many of your amazing friends and family. Thank you for your true, southern hospitality and your friendship. :)

The Rose Family

2011-10-11T11:02:00.000-07:00

Photographer Sara Rose and I met at a workshop two years ago, and were instant friends. We have shot weddings together, worked on photo projects together, our families have become friends and we talk almost daily. She is truly one of my closest friends and colleague and each year, we make a time to get together for her Christmas card. I won't show too many.. she doesn't like to give away the photo before you get her card (ha!). Love this sweet friend of mine and her beautiful family.

I used Yellow Sky actions on this- my buddy, Aron is the creator and I thought it would be fun to try something a little different on Sara and Terry's images!

Rocco's family

2011-10-10T07:49:00.000-07:00

Friday evening I hung out with Rocco and his folks for a bit while they read books, played outside and hung around the house in their comfy clothes. Such a nice, relaxing shoot, followed by nice, relaxing hanging out (since our son, Jack and Rocco are big buddies.. plus we think his parents are pretty rad).

Consult your Mentor

2011-10-09T06:08:00.000-07:00

I can not express the value of learning from your peers, the professionals you respect and the talented artists that are willing to pass along their experiences to you.

Rising Waters Entertainment recently featured me as a guest blogger and I dedicated an entire post to the subject (which you can read here).

I get asked questions constantly- really good questions: what lenses to purchase, good places to take clients for photographs, how to calculate quarterly taxes, workflow processes, etc.

And I have asked these same questions. In fact, a couple of years ago, I made the investment with a consultant and her guidance helped me create a plan for my business and a renewed vision for my work.

Your goals and ideas as an artist are exciting and sometimes overwhelming. And getting some perspective and organization to those thoughts are a direct investment into your craft and your business.

Let's grab coffee.

My consultation/mentoring sessions are $100/hour. Bring a list of questions, bring your portfolio and let's keep that momentum going!

sarah@sarahbgilliam.com | 931-797-2628

Morgan & Jason, married

2011-10-07T06:22:00.000-07:00

Morgan and Jason got married on the grounds of beautiful Riverwood Mansion in east Nashville. Their wedding day was completely low key and documentary and full of very fun friends and family.

One of the things I love most about this couple is that they know what they want and they have found it in themselves and each other. It's easy to see how this celebration is a perfect sendoff to a great marriage.

Congratulations!!!

Caroline, senior year

2011-10-06T08:19:00.000-07:00

Sweet Caroline and I met for her senior session last week. This Louisiana gal is all about her New Orleans hometown- even her dog's name is Beignet!

Caroline, I loved talking Taylor Swift and hearing about your plans for next year! See you soon!

trying on Nashville designers

2011-09-23T15:34:00.000-07:00

Looking forward to sharing more from our shoot today at Studio Berry Hill featuring some of Nashville's most notable talent. More soon. Styled by Brooke Shipley, H&MU Marwa Bashir.

Peter Nappi
Otis James
T&P
Emil Erwin
Imogene + Willie

standing bow

2011-09-14T06:22:00.001-07:00

Rachel and Wes

2011-09-09T13:32:00.000-07:00

Early this morning, I headed to Sparta to meet Wes and Rachel for a little hike. And when I say little, of course, I mean an epic climb and decent to Burgess Falls.
I can't wait to spend more time with these two- we have become friends through another wonderful couple and their October wedding is going to be incredible. They were actually stopping at Burgess as they do each year before the Fall Creek Falls Mountaineer Folk Festival, so today's trip fit in perfectly for photos to display at their wedding.

We have had quite a dry spell in middle Tennessee and thanks to some much-needed rain over Labor Day, the falls were breathtaking.

The Molder Family

2011-09-07T09:21:00.000-07:00

So wonderful seeing the Molder family again. And how quickly time flies. Ms. Marley Mac is over a year and she is everywhere... including the water fountain at Columbia's Polk Home...

Wander

2011-08-26T07:03:00.000-07:00

Beauty for Marwa Bashir

2011-08-25T08:19:00.000-07:00

Loved Marwa's vision for three looks we shot this week.
Styled, H&MU by Marwa Bashir, Lucy Pop Salon.
Models:
Aliegh Baumhardt
Moriah Pereira
Brianne O'Neill
Photo Assistant:
Ash Wright

Kate and the children

2011-08-24T05:23:00.001-07:00

Let me tell you a couple of things about this shoot.
Aside from a couple of suggestions, our session was completely documentary. And when work called dad in, the focus of our session became more about the interaction between Kate and their children and how to show him their dynamic in a unique, beautiful way.
So really, I feel this shoot was for him.

Lovely, laid back morning with this beautiful family.
Felt like home.

Morgan & Jason

2011-08-15T18:28:00.000-07:00

This morning was probably the nicest all summer. What a treat to get up early with these two. They will have a late September wedding at Riverwood Mansion in east Nashville.

We met for coffee at my local favorite (Bongo Java) before grabbing a couple photos in the neighborhood, then headed over to the beautiful, historic home.

She's a nurse at Vanderbilt, he's a firefighter at Station 18. Talk about the all-American couple (and both sweet as pie..):

These are the kind of folks you want to hang around with more. Such a great way to start the week. See y'all soon!

Behind the Scenes for Holly Spears album cover shoot

2011-08-15T14:58:00.000-07:00

Friday, an incredible team of talented folks helped put together a great shoot for musician, Holly Spears' album cover. I can't wait to share the images with you when Holly's album is released later this year!

Here is a quick look behind the scenes of our very long, very fun day.
Thank you to Michael Bretz for all the behind the scenes shots!
There will be a video (see Kyle in the top right of this first photo)- of the shoot out soon, too!

Holly Spears (hollyspears.com)
Adam Grosze - art director
Connie Richardson - stylist
Christin Cook - hair & makeup
Josh Milliken - photo assistant
Michael Bretz - photo assistant
Bailey Ingram - photo assistant
Rachel Growden - photo assistant

friendship

2011-08-10T06:42:00.000-07:00

Texan Michaela and San Fransisco dweller Molly have been friends for years. Roadtrip friends, long distance friends, the best kind of friends. I have known Michaela for a couple of years, and was thrilled when I learned that their travels have led them to Nashville. We decided to meet up for coffee and photographs and laughs.

Michaela: "you are my full-time friend... road trips are better with you in the car... from east coast to the west coast, you, my friend are the best coast..."

Molly: "border patrol, touring the Grand Canyon to a salt'n'peppa soundtrack, Vegas, and the Juno soundtrack on repeat..."

Molly: "Anyway, when it comes to friends, Michaela Powell is totally boss.:
Michaela: "I hope we never part. fart. best friends forever."

Sarah, senior year

2011-08-04T11:15:00.000-07:00

Sarah is a creative. I love being around creatives.
Art-driven and well-spoken. Clever. Funny.

I admire those who create with their hands. Sarah is a printmaker. I think she has printmaker hands.

dimming

2011-07-28T07:04:00.000-07:00

Alan and Michaela

2011-07-21T05:30:00.000-07:00

Next year, these two will be married. In the meantime, she is in law school and he is a photojournalist. That's a pretty busy combo. So, we decided to fit in a few photos over dinner (and a quick run to the store). We'll shoot a few more later, but documentary fits them perfectly.

Such good friends and a perfect pair.

Sugaree's Boutique

2011-07-15T05:55:00.000-07:00

This is my second shoot for Sugaree's Boutique in Murfreesboro. We are working to photograph a selection of owner, Staci Higdon's summer pieces (including a great vintage selection).

I don't usually do much work in post, but I really enjoyed using YELLOW SKY ACTIONS for these.

Stylist: Staci Higdon
Model: Alison Smith
Assistants: Bailey Ingram, Rachel Growden and Briana Mailley

evening play

2011-07-12T05:31:00.000-07:00

Virginia and Peter

2011-07-11T06:19:00.000-07:00

Virginia and Peter were married in their church last weekend- the church where they met and the church where they would promise so many important things to each other.
It was a beautiful day- filled with so much anticipation, which was really fun to read via their facebook pages... here's a peek at some of the things they were posting:

Peter: "ONE month, Darling Girl, ONE MONTH! (Happiness!)
Virginia: "God, may this excitement that I get about seeing my husband-to-be never wane, even long after we're legally bound (which is now just twelve days away, by the way.)
Peter (on their wedding day): "My calendar says: July 2nd- HAPPINESS."

Virginia: What a beautiful day to belong to a beautiful Savior, wear a beautiful dress, listen to beautiful music, receive a beautiful ring, hug beautiful friends, smile beautiful smiles, eat beautiful cake and pies and fried chicken, and marry one awfully AWFULLY beautiful man. What a day. Much love everyone!

special thank you to the talented Graham Yelton for helping document this day!!!

Virginia and Peter's wedding

2011-07-08T11:17:00.000-07:00

catch the beginning of their story monday..

Virginia's bridals

2011-07-08T11:09:00.000-07:00

This weekend, beautiful Virginia married charming Peter.
But, of course, you couldn't see her gorgeous gown until he did.

Free to be

2011-07-03T09:12:00.000-07:00

Featured on Rising Waters Entertainment

2011-06-30T07:19:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled to be featured on Wonderland, a part of Rising Waters Entertainment for a month long segment called "on the rise," which features up and coming folks in the entertainment industry.

Hope you'll check in during July!

waiting for a name

2011-06-30T06:08:00.000-07:00

Sugaree's Boutique

2011-06-20T08:54:00.000-07:00

Murfreesboro's Sugaree's Boutique has a perfect mix of vintage and vintage inspired clothing. Stopping in Staci Higdon's shop is one of my favorite indulgences and I'm not the only one! Check out this recent mention in Elle by Those Darlins. I am delighted to shoot her catalog for this summer.

More to come!

Styling: Staci Higdon
Model: Bailey Ingram
H&MU: Rachel Vantine
Photo Assistant: Rachel Growden

Father's Day Feature

2011-06-19T11:25:00.000-07:00

A few months back, I was asked by my former boss and mentor (and editor of The Daily Herald) to shoot a feature about the local hospital's volunteer services program. He told me they were going to feature my dad, who has been playing guitar in the hallways there for 10 years as a volunteer.
Of course, I was excited to put back on the journalism hat, but more so to get to photograph dad doing what he loves most and in this role as a comforter- something he is truly gifted at as a person and a father. And, the story ran today of all days- Father's Day. I'm a pretty proud daughter and his biggest fan.

Please click here to read the full story.

Coquette Road Trip

2011-06-16T08:16:00.000-07:00

You remember that time we got lost, stumbled into an old country store, bread sticking to the roofs of our mouths. The lazy afternoon and picking flowers by the creek. Dipping into the spring-fed water and laughing at the shock of the cold, and thinking what a perfect adventure we made.

Designer: Brooke Shipley, Coquette Swimwear
Design Assistant: Casie Davidson
Stylist Assistant: Tatiana Howell
Models: Ashley Fisher, Brittany Gingras, Portia Knox
Hair: Marwa Bashir, Lucy Pop Salon
MU: Drea Kaboom
Photography Assistants: Josh Milliken, Bailey Ingram, Rachel Growden

Special thank you to Tarkington's General Store for their true southern hospitality.

Is, Ol, El

2011-06-14T16:05:00.000-07:00

Isabell, Oliver and Eleanor take 15. These guys are some of my favorite kids to shoot (doesn't hurt that their folks are a couple of my favorite people to hang out with).

And even if they are laughing at me rather than with me (clear by the center image of Eleanor), there's nothing better than some giggling.

And just watching them be a kid is pretty fun, too.

Bonnaroo X

2011-06-14T13:57:00.000-07:00

This was my first Bonnaroo.
I loaded the ole Pentax with a few rolls of Fujicolor and pretty much shot from the hip. The people watching, music experience, dust.. camping.. hard to describe, really. Just awesome.

Aria Cavaliere

2011-06-06T19:42:00.000-07:00

Rockabilly, country, soulful.. and captivating. Aria Cavalerie lives in Nashville and when she isn't on tour, she's busy styling, buying and blogging about vintage fashion.

the last frame

2011-06-05T16:41:00.000-07:00

mamiya 654, kodak portra 400

Coquette Road Trip {sneak peek}

2011-05-30T12:24:00.001-07:00

Designer Brooke Shipley announced and showed her Summer 2011 collection during Nashville Fashion Week this April. This weekend, we worked on the Coquette Road Trip.

More about the story later and the amazing crew of talent who made it all happen, but here is a quick sneak peek from our road trippin' weekend.

...ain't that America, somethin' to see, baby...

Katelyn

2011-05-27T11:23:00.000-07:00

Loved photographing sweet Katelyn today.
Inquisitive and bubbly five-year-olds make for great conversation and fun photos.

Virginia and Peter | film

2011-05-26T13:42:00.000-07:00

We waited until the dogwoods were in full bloom before shooting Virginia and Peter's engagement images. Virginia loves these Tennessee trees and wanted them featured in their shoot.

I meant to post their film images earlier, but hadn't had the chance to scan it in. Here are a couple from the Hasselblad. Looking forward to your wedding this summer!

the new website

2011-05-24T14:24:00.000-07:00

Today is a pretty big deal in my photography business's life. Today, after three years of blogging, then adding facebook and and sort of tweeting, the final addition is complete.

My new website (middle image) is the official gallery. And it will be how I direct you to your online galleries (bottom image) and how you can inquire more directly about my pricing or availability.

Just seems like it was about time to get a streamlined system underway, but hey, I'm a photographer, not a web expert (which is why my friend Jen will forever be my hero for her troubleshooting and tech support today). So excited to unveil these sites. :)

I hope these sites will make it easier for you to navigate, ask questions and share images.

Keep on keepin' on.
sb

Rachel & Sam

2011-05-23T08:20:00.001-07:00

It was breezy and quiet around the winding neighborhood of cottages in Monteagle Saturday. And walking up to see Rachel there wasn't a buzz of activity, but more like crossing the last things off the honey-do list.

Of course, the tempo of the day changed a bit by the time the sun set...

But even then, it was evident that Sam and Rachel really took in their amazing day.

Such a joy to photograph a wedding for a couple seeking purely documentary images. And can't wait to get the film back!

SHOOT CAMP

2011-05-19T19:26:00.001-07:00

Have a sweet DSLR?

Want to know how to use it?

the blog • facebook • twitter • go

shootcamp@gmail.com

Adriane, Little Ox Pottery

2011-05-17T18:25:00.000-07:00

My dear friend Adriane finally talked me into a little R&R at the studio where she throws. Now, I doubt she'll keep me away. I have commissioned her for projects for my business and it is really exciting to see her's taking shape..

In addition to throwing, Adriane makes all sorts of clay art and is now offering classes - for family night or girls' night and all sorts of ideas to get people making their own artwork. Such a beautiful gift to share. You'll have to find her on Etsy and see what other people are saying about this talented lady.

This is just my humble, unsolicited opinion..

Troy

2011-05-04T07:09:00.000-07:00

Wrapping up the series with Mr. Sikes.

The Foxes Three

2011-05-03T11:26:00.000-07:00

This weekend, I hit the road to Atlanta to photograph my dear friends and their precious, Annabel. I have known her mom, Elizabeth since we were sporting side pony tails (the first time around). And, of course, we became fast friends with Mr. Fox.

It was nice to just hang out and visit between snaps and diaper changes.

Thank you for a lovely visit (and a yummy burrito). I'm looking forward to the next one.

The Griffin Family

2011-05-03T07:12:00.000-07:00

The Griffins and I went to Radnor Lake last week to shoot family photos and for sweet Lizzie's first birthday.

It's always wonderful spending time with you guys... a walk in the park ;)

Sarah S.

2011-04-29T14:25:00.000-07:00

(Sarah S. made off with some broccoli from the garden)

Rachel

2011-04-29T14:21:00.000-07:00

The recent hair cut inspired this shoot (as did the proceeding one of Sarah S., incidentally)

Tammura

2011-04-26T04:39:00.000-07:00

I sat Tammura down in the garage after shooting her sweet son, Rocco last week. Love her grandmother's locket.

Angela

2011-04-25T06:07:00.000-07:00

Me: I want to shoot you in my garage.
AP: Shoot me in your garage.

I have lovely, willing friends.

Lauren and Wes

2011-04-24T18:00:00.000-07:00

I recently worked with Graham Yelton as a second shooter for a wedding in Franklin.
Of course, I was thrilled because Graham is a film shooter, too and asked me to bring a couple rolls myself. Here are a couple from the Hasselblad of Lauren and Wes.

It was wonderful meeting this fabulous couple and a great experience working with Graham.
(yay film!)

Rocco is three

2011-04-23T06:31:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, Rocco and I did a little running around and hanging out to mark his third birthday (coming soon).

His mom, Tammura and I are friends and we were surprised to see how involved Rocco was in our shoot. He even participated in our little garage series (click here).

This very cool kid is the sweetest and was pretty much up for anything. I know he's going to go bananas at his birthday party next weekend! What a big boy!

Rocco

2011-04-22T15:36:00.000-07:00

This little boy with perfect freckles sat in my garage today.

Earth Day

2011-04-22T06:51:00.000-07:00

For us, Earth Day is celebrated on a pretty small, but important scale. We take care of the earth in our garden, use only soil and nothing else to grow our vegetables. And we are rewarded year after year:

(our son jack with some beauties from last year's garden)

For our family, protecting and respecting the environment goes hand-in-hand with so many aspects of our daily life- everything from eating organic, whole foods (supporting pesticide and chemical-free, local farms) recycling, to collecting rainwater to leaving the windows open. Maybe one of these days, we'll get to drive a car fueled by something less harmful as well.

We love our Earth!

Graham

2011-04-21T13:27:00.000-07:00

Graham has been working with me in the office all the livelong day. We took a brief break and headed to the garage before digging up lettuce for lunch. Lovely.

Sara Rose

2011-04-21T13:23:00.000-07:00

We all call her SaraRose, but it's just Sara. Short and sweet (just like her).

Tiffany

2011-04-21T07:39:00.000-07:00

Tiffany, you can just be beautiful anywhere.

Garage series

2011-04-19T12:46:00.000-07:00

In the last week or so, I've been posting single, digital, test images.
And what began as a shoot with my assistant, Bailey, has kind of grown.

I figure now is as good a time as any to explain the reason behind these.
(below is the real deal film and if you're just joining us, these are the last few, digital blog posts)

I bought a Hasselblad a few weeks ago for a lot of reasons, but one was to reteach myself, or maybe refocus myself on why I wanted to be a photographer to begin with (an ongoing process, of course).

The shot with Bailey (bottom right) was a test shot. 10 minutes max.
I wanted to start from ground zero. No lights, no equipment, no plan.
However, I needed to create a controlled environment for such an experiment.
(I mean, I'm all about spontaneous, but some things just need to be consistent)

Enter, garage studio:

(two white bedsheets, one white blanket, one kitchen chair, four clamps)

Yes, that is our recycling, gasoline, potting soil.. you get the point.. this is a make-shift, spur-of-the-moment studio. But it is also quite versatile: lots of bounced light from yard sale, white bed sheets and white, aluminum garage door and an all-weather spot to shoot.

So, from Bailey, I called up another friend who offered up her sister (Alison, top right), and then I randomly texted my buddy, Art (top left) and finally my friend, mom and assistant, Adriane (bottom left). All of these shoots were conducted in less than 15 minutes and with only a handful of shots digitally before picking up the Hasselblad to finish the real work.

I have just a couple more of these lined up and that will conclude this little series and hopefully give me fuel and confidence to move on to another.

Thank you all for your comments with these last shoots. It's exciting to have a work in progress and even more fun to have folks cheering you on.

Adriane and little Ox

2011-04-18T11:11:00.000-07:00

My friend and amazing potter, Adriane, and her little Ox (Maddox).
(film to follow)

Virginia and Peter

2011-04-15T14:10:00.000-07:00

Virginia and Peter talked about their Sunday afternoons like it was reading pages from a novel: walking around the farm Peter lives and works on, reading books, cooking together and listening to music.

Virginia loves the dogwoods and they were magnificent last night.

And after our evening of shooting, these two made us an amazing dinner.
Just can't wait to spend your wedding day with you two.

Art

2011-04-14T11:19:00.000-07:00

And after this photo, salad from the garden. Yum.

Alison

2011-04-13T12:26:00.000-07:00

Now it's a series (both the portraits and the film waiting).

The Thornhills

2011-04-12T10:52:00.000-07:00

Miss Emma is now a big sister. But not just to one, sweet brother.

She got two! And even though the identical twin boys arrived just a bit ahead of schedule, they are doing just fine.

Thornhills, thank you for allowing me to spend time with your beautiful boys and your wonderful family. Congratulations!

Lynchburg

2011-04-12T08:22:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite gigs throughout the year is on the campus of the Jack Daniels Distillery in Lynchburg. I love everything about this assignment: the smell, the people, the drive down Hwy 82.

Bailey

2011-04-11T13:09:00.000-07:00

I shot Bailey this afternoon- (my wonderful assistant/intern/buddy).
There will be more- we're waiting for the negatives.

Willa

2011-04-05T14:17:00.000-07:00

The Hughes family recently welcomed baby Willa into their family. It was pretty amazing to watch her older brothers sing to her and fuss over her.
Congratulations on a beautiful addition to your sweet family.

Kaki and Paul

2011-04-03T21:36:00.001-07:00

This weekend, the weather was perfect and the tulips were in full bloom at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens in Memphis for Kaki and Paul's wedding.

It was literally a walk in the park to photograph these two wonderful people and their friends and family.

Kaki and Paul, we are so glad to have been invited to your wedding as friends and to document this most important day. Congratulations!!!

A Day in the Life - 2011 CONTEST

2011-03-27T10:35:00.000-07:00

The Day in the Life contest.
These wonderful folks have submitted their story for why/how they would use a Day in the Life.
A Day in the Life shoot is just as it sounds. I photograph a day in their lives. The images gathered are unscripted and many times uneventful. The important part is that they are real.
To me, the fleeting moments, the in between, the perfectly mundane is worth all of the focus. These may not be the photographs of epic magnificence, but what you treasure most.

Please take a minute to read through these stories and find the voting at the top of the blog! VOTING WILL END FRIDAY, APRIL 1 at midnight (no, this is not an April Fool's joke... it really will end on Friday. No, seriously.)

Thank you and good luck to all who have entered!

Holly Spears

A Day in the Life would be super cool for me because my fans; friends; and family members often wonder - "What does she do all day?" I don't think people realize what the life of a full-time musician is like. Staying up late; sleeping in; exercising; reading; booking shows on the computer or the phone; brain storming for future musical ventures; rehearsing; writing; social media; finding inspiration; resting before a gig; getting dressed for the gig; driving to the gig; setting up at a gig; playing the gig; tearing down after the gig; spending time with God through out the whole time. I would be honored to extend the insider's look at what life can be like as a musician ... if chosen for the shoot.

Amanda Boggs for her brother's family.
This is Allison today:

Allison is going to be 3 in April.

She was born 7 weeks early.

She ended up having a massive bleed in her brain and ultimately had to have a shunt surgically implanted in her brain. She spent her first 6 or 7 weeks in the neonatal ICU at Kosair's Hospital in Louisville. She is our little miracle. She is doing so well and it has just been amazing to watch her progress from birth to now. My brother, a teacher, and his wife, a nurse, also have another baby, Stella. She will be one in March.

The Walker Family

We, the prestigious and ever-fashionable Walkers (of the Cloverwood Drive Walkers;), would like to submit ourselves as just the right family for your popular A Day in the Life contest. Limelight is nothing new to us Walkers as our daily lives are laden with photo-ops paparazzi descend on like vultures. The simple act of screeching on two wheels into an elementary school drop-off line, to get a child to school in the nick of time, is commonplace excitement for us. Trash-talking each other during a spirited family face-off of The Michael Jackson Experience on game night is demonstrated with Hatfield and McCoy-like finesse. Dinner time may involve enough chaos to make a Barnum and Bailey experience seem zen-like. Throw in frequent visitors, cousins Bella and Caroline, and it's more fun than front row seats to a Wiggles concert! Our Sunday afternoon picnics at Centennial Park involve more joy and memory-making than you can shake a stick at. (We cannot, however, recommend shaking sticks at Centennial Park. We tried that during someone's "pirate phase." Other patrons do not appreciate a decent sword fight.) Recovering perfectionists Kristi and Kevin, parents to the brilliant, comely and talented Julia, Isaac and Lily, may not have it all together. But as we live out our blessed and beautiful life--having more fun than anyone should in under 1500 square feet of living space--together we have it all!

The Hall Family

I document the kid's lives. Since Ava was born i have documented hers and now Cy's life. RARELY...and i mean RARELY do I ever get in the pictures. I was putting together a picture collage of Cy for his 1 year bday and I could not find one of him and chip, my hubs! I love that I have pictures of my kids, but if we as the parents are not in them how does it prove to them we were there living life with them? It is truly important for me to show them how we have lived and that we have lived life together...simply, but together. We are right by Mill Creek and we love to take walks by the creek and around the hood. IT just shows our sweet simple life together. I would just love to see us doing it together:)

Sarah Barry

Lilly age 6, Ava Catherine age 2 and me, Sarah/Mom/old enough to have 2 kids, have fun all day!!! We like make up, baby dolls, art, dancing, singing, hide and seek, Glee, Wii, Predators Hockey and ice cream before bed. From 6 am to 8:30 pm (I hope by then) we are having a blast. I want to document this precious time in our lives before it is taken over by softball, dance, boyfriends, and growing up life drama. This period of time is so important to us, because it is always all about Lilly and Ava Catherine! Meal planning, agenda for the day, shopping, whatever our day has in store for us is planned according to what “we” want to do! Their father and I are divorced and the weekends they are gone I am lost! There is no direction without them in the house. The Day in the Life photo shoot would be an opportunity for me to share with Lilly and Ava Catherine these good times long after the drama has come and gone.

Elizabeth Lewis

Once upon a time my family all lived in the same town, my parents and sisters all in the same house and we spent our days running about together (though always in seemingly different directions). But it's been a long time since then - 20 years since we were all in the same house or even state. But that doesn't change family, it just changes how often you get to see each other. And when we do all get together now - twice a year at most - it is generally 72 hours of frantic catching up, lots of hugs and general bliss.

I had to share several photos of my family to explain why we really need a Day in the Life shoot. First off, someone is always taking the photos (generally my sister and I) and therefore get left out of the photos. That leaves capturing the total group up to a tripod which takes away so much from the moment (though what a charming group we are ;). Secondly, our 4 - 7 days together a year as a family (split over two visits) are jam packed with some of the most precious moments of our lives, but as we are all too preoccupied with experiencing that time together, we often forget to document it.
My grandparents are aging, we've had health scares through the years for a number of our family members and these times continue to get more and more important to me as an adult. I would give my right arm - better yet (and more practically) donate my massive length of hair to Locks of Love or another worthy charity (if they'd take my curly mess) - just to have this opportunity. Pinky swear. That could be an interesting photo opp in itself.

Lindsey Gregory

I came across your contest on Nashville's Social Calendar's Facebook page. I thought it sounded fun to possibly be a part of. My sister has recently started studying photography and I think it is such a cool art form. I live downtown in an old warehouse loft, behind The Cannery Ballroom. My loft is 1600 sq. ft full of color and art, I consider it quite eclectic. I love everything to do with design and redesign so my place is always a work in progress. We have had a few photo shoots in my place. I love my apartment. I included pictures of my dog, my cat, my apartment, my friends, and my niece and nephew. My friends are hands down some of the absolute funniest people on the planet. My family is extremely important to me as well and I spend quite a bit of time playing the role of "the crazy aunt" too.

We have a small garden out back next to the train tracks that I like to get my hands dirty in and I can't wait until spring. My life consists of work (I'm a bartender in midtown), decorating, hanging with my friends and family, music, and creating art in one form or another. I would love to be a part of your project.

Kat Jones
This photo explains me these days.

I used to be a full-time manager of an fabulous clothing store.

As of February I stay at home engineer. It's not so bad since my kid is awesome.

I'm guilty of:
a. Wearing a mom uniform - jeans, black tee, and hat.
b.
c. Not brushing my teeth until the afternoon (some days, not all).

I dream of:
a. Running another marathon.
b.
c.

I'm known for:
a. Being extremely hyper when I drink cokes or sweet tea
b. My chocolate cake
c. Not always finishing things I start.

If I'm chosen I promise you three things while you are here:
a. We'll go running or walking
b. I'll have a chocolate cake for you
c. I'll brush my teeth!

The Carder Family

so, i am an artist and a photographer... and as you may well know, the photographer is not present in many photos taken during holidays, birthdays, walks in the park, etc. without sounding like a self-centered, ego fueled jerk-wad, i would love to see what the family looks like with the husband/father included in the documentation of any given day. the photo that i have sent is a tradition that i created for our family several years ago, and on the first weekend of the year we go have a big breakfast somewhere, and then we go to centennial park for our family photo (me included.) besides this shot, there are few of me involved with the family, and this fact is depressing, because i am very involved. not that i need proof, but i would like the girls to be able to flip through more photos of all of us together someday. of course, i will need to change the way things are done around here so that i am included photos throughout the year, but this opportunity that you are offering would be a great addition to the albums... and now, for the most sentimental part of my note: because my father passed away when i was sixteen, i am too aware of the power and importance of having photos taken with the kids, and not just photos of the kids. this offer of yours could facilitate a priceless gift, and i/we would be forever grateful to be your subject. oh, and we are likely to draw outside of the lines.

Tara Tocco, public relations

2011-03-25T19:26:00.000-07:00

My long-time friend, Tara Tocco recently left the corporate world of public relations to branch out on her own as a consultant and writer.

And with that, she's leaving behind corporate headshots and replacing them with a portrait that says a little more about her. And naturally, having your own business says a lot about who you are.

Of course, as her friend, I am thrilled for her new venture into the freelance world. And as a client, I am excited to have the opportunity to shoot such a driven, talented woman.

ArtisTree Art Show | Nashville Fashion Week

2011-03-23T18:02:00.000-07:00

(Brooke Shipley | Coquette Designs)

Next week kicks off a historic event for the Nashville fashion community. Nashville's first FASHION WEEK. And you will not believe the star power! Designers Christian Siriano (you may remember him from Bravo's Project Runway) and pieces from Betsey Johnson will be featured on the runway early in the week and so many local designers like Shea Steele's White Rabbit collection and Brooke Shipley's Coquette Designs swimwear.

Just check out the schedule!

And at the end of the week, ArtisTree will be hosting a gallery show of AMAZING photographers and painters, and I'm thrilled to be a part of it.

I hope you'll make a date of it, and come by to see these artists, get to see my first show (a little excited) and purchase some art! This is the Tomorrow Fund of The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee's seventh annual art show. Best part: a percentage of all art sales will benefit the Tomorrow Fund and its grantmaking to support nonprofit programs for children in the Nashville area.

For more information, please click here.

And make sure you check out the other artists showing work. It will be an amazing event!

Baby Noah

2011-03-20T17:11:00.000-07:00

My long-time friends Ashely and Brady recently welcomed baby Noah into their family of now five. This wonderful family now lives hundreds of miles away, but we were able to sneak in a quick shoot this weekend while they were in town.

I was just as excited to meet him as I was to hug his mom and dad. Congratulations on your beautiful boy, my friends.

a boy in my herbs

2011-03-19T19:59:00.000-07:00

Laying in the yard, watching the insects roam around the mint and sage. Just shuffling here and there, he moved around enough to stir up a beautiful aroma in the back yard.

Tulip Test

2011-03-19T08:18:00.000-07:00

My adult ADD is offsetting the need for canned air (next purchase) but I digress to say that this is the first image taken with the new Hasselblad.

Learning the ropes of the new scanner, too, so I'm sure the color and sharpness will improve.

The tulips are from my sweet, Mr. Gilliam for no reason at all.

Film

2011-03-17T12:31:00.000-07:00

I have been waiting to write this blog for a very long time. I actually started it last July...

I'm sitting here in my office looking around and something clicks (probably not what you think).

Here’s what I see. I see books- lots:

A World History of Photography
Sally Mann, Immediate Family
Ernst Haas, The Creation
Photographic Printing

I see my old friend, the K1000. Still going strong.
I see late nights writing out notecards filled with images, processes and dates of hundreds of photographers.
Rolls of film stuffed into a Mason jar.

Reminders, memories and signs of it are all around me. Why has it taken me so long to listen?
I love this medium.

Film isn't just something romantic for me. It is the backbone of my photography.

I used to poke fun at my degree, scoff at it since photography is an art that so many I respect have learned on their own. But the time spent in the dark, in the critique and in the intense study of other artists has made me appreciate my film background in a renewed way.

And so today I was looking around my office..

waiting on the UPS truck to show up, I knew that this day would be a turning point in my career as a photographer.

And a new perspective, renewed love of film.

30 minutes

2011-03-13T18:53:00.000-07:00

As many people know, PHOTOfunDAY is near and dear to my heart. For one weekend every so often, there is photography for all: big kids, little kids, families, pets and friends. And it's a new fun shoot every 20-30 minutes for two full days straight.

Thank you to everyone who came out to have fun with photos this weekend!!!
To see more from our shoot, visit the PHOTOfunDAY facebook page!

Fashion Forward

2011-03-06T12:39:00.000-08:00

This morning, I had the pleasure of working with an incredible team of artists for a shoot I've been wanting to get underway for a while.

A fashion shoot takes so much work as a team, and these guys worked hard to make it fun and fabulous. Obviously, we had to poke a little fun at our status/tweet-obsessed shoot.

Models: Kendall Mitchell, Brittani Riggin
MU: Drea Kaboom
Hair: Erin Lambright
H&MU Assistant: Cavan Gwar
Stylist: Elizabeth Allen | e. Allen boutique
Stylist Assistant: Julia Ukwu
Photography Assistants: Jenna Winstead, Graham Yelton

Breakfast at the Readyville Mill

2011-03-05T11:02:00.000-08:00

This morning Mr. Gilliam gave Tomm Brady a call to see if he was making good on his promise during our last visit the The Readyville Mill. Tomm, who owns and restored the mill, had said that in March, he was going to start making breakfast from the stone-ground wheat and grits he grinds each Saturday morning.

I could hear a loud, "Y'all come on," from the other end of the phone.
So we did.

For some of us, it was a struggle to wait for the freshly ground, organic feast. But bluegrass music and visiting with Nora, who runs the event planning, about gardening more than made up for the wait.

The from-scratch breakfast was delightful and we can't wait to start making this a tradition. If you haven't been to the Mill, it is worth the short drive out of Murfreesboro to see this amazing, historic building back in working order. Tomm and Nora will be glad you stopped by.

Lindsey and Cody

2011-03-01T06:00:00.000-08:00

This weekend, Lindsey and Cody's friends and family packed the pews of Scarritt-Bennett's Wightman Chapel to watch as these two spoke their own vows.

Lindsey is the sister of one of my great friends and photographer (Shea Halliburton). And I got to share the shooting with a couple of other amazing shooters, Lisette Price and Cass Moore.

Always a perk to be able to share the fun with some fabulous photogs.

Congratulations to Lindsey and Cody on a beautiful day and a fantastic party!

Designer Brooke Shipley

2011-02-26T07:11:00.000-08:00

Swimsuit designer Brooke Shipley will be showing her vintage-inspired summer collection during Nashville Fashion Week. More to come on her pieces and involvement!

(coquettedesigns.com)

Be well

2011-02-25T08:49:00.001-08:00

a day in the life contest

2011-02-22T13:43:00.000-08:00

(you can opt for film, too- like this one)

Yay, already several entries for this year's contest! Here is the info:

The photography:
I come to you for about a half day of documentary shooting. There is no interaction on my end, just photography.

The contest:
Send me a photo of you/your family/your pets, etc and include about a paragraph of why a Day in the Life shoot is for you. (email DITLphoto@gmail.com)
The deadline to enter is March 14. You will win a half day shoot as well as a CD of proofs from our day.

Your friends and family and strangers who like your story will vote.

Jessy and Ty are engaged

2011-02-20T19:10:00.000-08:00

This afternoon I hung out with Jessy and Ty in their hip, east Nashville backyard for some photos for their Save the Date cards. We laughed because I mentioned that while I scoped out some rad brick walls, it didn't really match their personalities... and their backyard was perfect.

Ty: "Yeah, we aren't brick people, we are wood fence and raised beds people."

Yep.

We shot film and digital
Pentax 35mm:

Mamiya 645

I should also mention that Jessy and I worked together as magazine editors (she edits several magazines including one you Tennessean folks probably have heard of: Home & Farm) and Ty is an amazing musician and provided a perfect soundtrack to our backyard shoot.

And any shoot that ends with sushi on a patio on a 73-degree day in February is FINE BY ME.
So wonderful hanging out with you guys today. October can't come soon enough! Congratulations again ;)

for dad

2011-02-20T07:29:00.000-08:00

SHOOT CAMP

2011-02-15T20:43:00.000-08:00

Have a DLSR camera? Want to learn to use it in one day? You will at SHOOT CAMP. (e-mail shootcamp@gmail.com or follow us on twitter (@shootcamp) or facebook for details on our next workshop- could we make it any easier?)